COLLAPSIBLE CONTAINER AND METHOD FOR ERECTING CONTAINER
Technology related to collapsible shipping containers is described herein. For example, a lifting mechanism is described having a first lift beam and a second lift beam, where the lift beam is pivotably attached to the container at one end and slidably attached to the container at another end. In addition, tensioning systems, locking systems, cable systems and arrangements for folding axes are described herein in the context of a collapsible shipping container.
This application is being filed as a PCT International Patent application on Jan. 26, 2010, in the name of T Cody Turnquist, a U.S. Citizen, and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 61/147,322, titled “Collapsible Container and Method for Erecting Container,” filed Jan. 26, 2009 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 61/185,017, titled “Collapsible Container and Method for Erecting Container,” filed Jun. 8, 2009; the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe technology disclosed herein relates to shipping containers. More particularly, the technology disclosed herein relates to a collapsible shipping container.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONAn embodiment of a collapsible container is described herein including a container top substantially defining a top plane and a first longitudinal side coupled to the container top adjacent to a top edge of the first longitudinal side. The first longitudinal side has a first intermediate folding axis substantially parallel to the top plane, a first bottom folding axis substantially parallel to the top plane, and a first top folding axis substantially parallel to the top plane, where the first top folding axis is a first distance from the top plane. The container also includes a second longitudinal side coupled to the container top, adjacent to a top edge of the second longitudinal side. The second longitudinal side has a second intermediate folding axis substantially parallel to the top plane, a second top folding axis substantially parallel to the top plane, where the second top folding axis is a second distance from the top plane where the second distance is greater than the first distance, and a second bottom folding axis substantially parallel to the top plane. The container further includes a container bottom coupled to the first longitudinal side and the second longitudinal side.
Embodiments of a shipping container with a tensioning mechanism are described herein including a shipping container having a sidewall and an edge, where the sidewall defines passages through which cable can pass, and a plurality of tension cables running through the passages in a plane substantially parallel to a plane defined by a surface of the sidewall, where each cable of the plurality of tension cables has a first end coupled proximate to the edge of the container and a second end. The system further includes a spindle system connected to the second ends of the tension cables and configured to collect the one or more tension cables when the container is expanded and release one or more tension cables from the second ends when the container is collapsed.
In another embodiment, a tensioning mechanism for a shipping container is described comprising a first cable having a first end and second end, where the first end of the first cable is fixed adjacent to a first edge of a wall, a second cable having a first end and second end, where the first end of the second cable is fixed proximate to the first edge of the wall, a spindle fixed proximate to a second edge of the wall where the spindle is configured to collect and release the first cable from the second end of the first cable and the second cable from the second end of the second cable, and a spindle drive in communication with the spindle.
In another embodiment, a tensioning mechanism for a shipping container is described comprising a plurality of cables fixed proximate to a first edge of a container and a spindle system configured to collect one or more tension cables from a second edge of the container when the container is expanded and release one or more tension cables from the second ends when the container is collapsed. In yet another embodiment, a collapsible shipping container is described comprising a container structure having a first longitudinal side, a first lift beam pivotably disposed adjacent to a first corner of the first longitudinal side and slidably disposed proximate to a first edge of the first longitudinal side, and a second lift beam pivotably disposed adjacent to a second corner of the first longitudinal side and slidably disposed proximate to the first edge of the first longitudinal side.
In another embodiment, a collapsible shipping container is described including a container structure having a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side; a front lift beam having a first end and second end, where the first end is pivotably disposed adjacent to a first corner of the first longitudinal side and the second end is slidably disposed proximate to a first edge of the first longitudinal side; and a back lift beam having a first end and second end, where the first end is pivotably disposed adjacent to a first corner of the second longitudinal side and the second end is slidably disposed proximate to a first edge of the second longitudinal side. The position of the back lift beam relative to the container is symmetrical to the front lift beam relative to the container. The container further includes a first screw system coupled to the second end of the first lift beam and a second screw system coupled to the second end of the second lift beam.
In a further embodiment, a lifting mechanism is described comprising a drive shaft, a screw system in communication with the drive shaft where the screw system has a first screw receptacle and a first screw, and a first lift beam having a first end mechanically coupled to the screw receptacle and a second end pivotably fixed.
In another embodiment, a collapsible container is described comprising a collapsible container structure; a first screw fixed relative to a first edge of the collapsible container structure; a first drive shaft mechanically coupled to the first screw; and a first screw receptacle in threaded engagement with the first screw and in mechanical communication with the container such that when the first screw receptacle advances, the container collapses and when the first screw receptacle regressed, the container expands.
In yet another embodiment, a locking system is described that includes a door of a structure; a door frame coupled to the first door and pivotably coupled to the structure; and a lock handle pivotably disposed on a door, configured to have a first position in a first phase of a locking system. The lock handle is configured to have a second position in a second phase of a locking system and a third position in a third phase of a locking system.
The invention may be more completely understood and appreciated in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the invention in connection with the accompanying drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION Container OverviewShipping containers are available in many different sizes, but one common size has dimensions about 8 feet (W) by 8.5 feet (H) by 40 feet (L). Another common size is 8 feet (W) by 9.5 feet (H) by 40 feet (L), which is sometimes referred to as a “High Cube” size. The High Cube size has been increasing in popularity in recent years. Principles disclosed herein relevant to the High Cube design could be applied to containers of other sizes, especially those of different lengths. For example, other common sizes have similar height and width dimension, but a length dimension of 20 feet, 45 feet, or 53 feet. The below-described technology can also be relevant to the 8 feet (W) by 8.5 feet (H) by 40 feet (L) container, as well as other-sized containers.
General Structure of ContainerThe skeletal structure 104 is generally a truss structure formed from steel beams, fiberglass and composite material, for example, although a variety of materials would provide suitable strength and durability. Such truss structure can define the perimeters of the container end panel 110, the container door 110, the container top 112, the container bottom 114, the container first longitudinal side 116, and the container second longitudinal side 118. The skeletal structure 104 has at least four hinged columns 105 adjacent to at least four edges of the container 100 where the hinges allow collapse of the container.
The skeletal structure 104 can provide support for the panels 102 by, for example, sandwiching the perimeter of the panels 102 to protect the edges of the panels 102. The skeletal structure 104 can be coupled to the panels using a variety of mechanisms such as latches, bolts, and the like. The skeletal structure 104 also can include elongate U-shaped members, in some embodiments constructed of steel and/or a fiberglass material and/or a composite material, which substantially cover the edges of the panels 102. Additionally, the beams incorporated into the skeletal structure 104 can be bolted together, hinged together, or coupled through a variety of other means known in the art.
In the current embodiment the jointed columns 105 are adjacent to the four vertical edges of the container 100. A plurality of vertical bracing elements 107 can also define the skeletal structure 104. In the embodiment depicted the vertical bracing elements 107 are parallel to the jointed columns 105 and disposed incrementally along the length of each longitudinal side 116 and placed between 1) the truss structure defining the perimeter of the container top and the intermediate hinge 132 and 2) the truss structure defining the perimeter defining the container bottom and the intermediate hinge 132.
The panels 102 can be a variety of materials and combinations of materials, but in at least one embodiment are at least partially composed of composite material. In such an embodiment the composite panels can have a corrugated structure, and are generally rectangular in shape. In such embodiments the panels 102 can also be constructed of foam, a variety of plastics, and the like. In one embodiment the composite material sandwiches a plastic material. In one other embodiment the composite material sandwiches a foam material that is sprayed on the composite material, where air between the layers of composite material and the foam is vacuumed out for increased strength. In yet another embodiment, the panels 102 are constructed of a fiberglass honeycomb structure, where expanding foam is used to fill the voids defined by such honeycomb structure. Cross-bracing can be incorporated within the structure of the panels 102. In various embodiments the panels 102 are permeable to some forms of electromagnetic radiation such as X-radiation (X-rays).
In at least one embodiment, the panels 102 define one or more openings and channels through which to pass one or more translating cables, which will be described in more detail, in the discussion of
The top 112 of the container 100 is at least partially defined by the panels 102 and skeletal structure 104 and incorporates at least a portion of a variety of mechanisms that contribute to the collapsing and expanding process of the container 100. A collapsing mechanism 122 including lift beams 150 is used for directly collapsing and expanding the container 100. A tensioning mechanism 500 is used for providing tension within the longitudinal sides 116, 118 as the container is expanded and removing tension within the longitudinal sides 116, 118 when the container is collapsed. A joint support system is at least partially incorporated in the top 112 of the container to provide support to column 105 hinges of the container 100 when the container 100 is erect. Such mechanisms will be described in more detail in the discussions of
The container door 110 is coupled to a perimeter of the container forming an aperture. In one embodiment the perimeter of the aperture is defined by the skeletal structure 104 of the container 100. In another embodiment the perimeter of the aperture is defined by outer end edges of the panels 102. The container door 110 can be coupled to the skeletal structure 104, panels 102, or the like, through a variety of means that will be known in the art. In one embodiment the container door 110 is coupled to the substantial length of the material defining the bottom edge of the aperture with a hinge that allows folding of the container door 110 into the container 100. The container door 110 will be described in more detail in the discussion of
In one particular embodiment, the collapsing mechanism 122 is in operative communication with lift beams 150. The container 100 has four lift beams 150, where a first end 152 of each of the four lift beams 150 is pivotably disposed adjacent to a unique bottom corner of each longitudinal side 116, 118 of the container 100. In some instances the container 100 has up to eight lift beams, which will be described below. A second end 154 of each of the four lift beams 150 is slidably disposed in a sliding slot 160 defined along the top of the container 100. When engaged for collapse, the collapsing mechanism 122 slides the second end 154 of each of the four lift beams 150 along the sliding slot 160 towards the center of the container 100, causing the lift beams 150 to pivot and the second end 154 of each lift beam to move downwardly. The lift beams 150 guide the collapse of the structure of the container 100. The collapsing process is generally described with reference to
In one embodiment, the folded configuration is ⅙th of its upright height. For example, 8 feet (W) by 8.5 feet (H) by 40 feet (L) container can be collapsed to have dimensions of about 8 feet (W) by 17 inches (H) by 40 feet (L).
In another embodiment, the folded configuration is ⅕th of its upright height. For example, a container having dimensions of about 8 feet (W) by 9.5 feet (H) by 40 feet (L) can be collapsed to have dimensions of about 8 feet (W) by 22.8 inches (H) by 40 feet (L).
Now the collapsing of a container 1000 having an alternative embodiment will be described, referring to
Each of four primary lift beams 1500 have a first end 1510 that is pivotably disposed adjacent to a unique bottom corner of each longitudinal side of the container, and a second end 1520 that is slidably disposed in a top sliding slot 1060 defined along the top of the container. However, each of the four primary lift beams 1500 works in concert with a secondary lift beam 1600. Each secondary lift beam 1600 has a first end 1610 that is pivotably disposed at a point 1630 that is central to the length of the respective primary lift beam 1500, and a second end 1620 that is slidably disposed in a bottom sliding slot 1050 defined along the bottom of the container 1000. In the alternative embodiment, both the primary lift beams 1500 and the secondary lift beams 1600 guide the collapse of the structure of the container 1000.
The top edge 128, bottom edge 130, and intermediate axis 132 of the first longitudinal side 116 are at different positions relative to the height of the container 100 than the top edge 134, bottom edge 136, and intermediate axis 138 of the second longitudinal side 118. Such a construction as depicted and described can allow each longitudinal side 116, 118 to fold inwardly and at least partially overlap so as to accommodate each other. As a result, the shipping container 100 can collapse from an upright configuration to a folded configuration where it is a fraction of its upright height.
The locking plate 140 defines a plate pin opening 142 that is configured to receive a locking pin 144. The locking plate 140 extends towards the container bottom 114 and is configured such that when the container 100 is in a collapsed position, the plate pin opening 142 substantially aligns with a container pin opening 146 (where the container pin opening 146 can be viewed in
The locking plate 140 can be constructed of a variety of materials and fall within the scope of the technology disclosed herein. In a variety of embodiments the locking plate 140 is rigid. In such embodiments the locking plate 140 can be constructed of steel and/or a composite material, for example. The locking plate can be secured to the container top 112 via rivets, bolts, and the like, and holds the collapsed container 100 structure together. The locking plate 140 can be secured to a variety of other locations on the container 100 and be included within the scope of the technology disclosed herein.
The lock can be incorporated in at least one location on the container 100, or each of the four top corners of the container 100 can have a locking plate 140 coupled thereto, and each of the four bottom corners can be configured to receive a locking pin 144 through a passage defined by a container pin opening 146 and plate pin opening 142 of a corresponding locking plate 140. The locking pin 144 can be placed for storage in the container pin opening 146 when the container 100 is fully erected, in multiple embodiments.
The locking pin 144 is configured to engage the locking plate 140 and the container bottom 114, and therefore can have a variety of shapes and sizes to achieve such. In one embodiment the locking pin 144 is cylindrical and is 3⅞ inches long and 1.5 inches thick. The locking pin can be constructed of steel in one embodiment, although a variety of other materials would be suitable without deviating from the scope of the technology disclosed herein. In a variety of embodiments the locking pin 144 is non-load-bearing unless forces are applied to the container 100 separating the container top 112 and the container bottom 114 while the pin is disposed in the container pin opening 146 and the plate pin opening 142. When the container is collapsed, the locking plate 140 rests against the corner of the container bottom, so the locking plate 140 and not the locking pin 144 bears the weight of the top of the container and any containers stacked on top of it.
The locking pin 144 can be constructed to frictionally engage at least a portion of the locking plate 140 or container bottom 114 from the passage defined by the container pin opening 146 and plate pin opening 142 of a corresponding locking plate 140. In one example embodiment, two or more spheres disposed on the end of the locking pin 144 provide frictional engagement with at least a portion of the surfaces defining the passage. In another embodiment the locking pin 144 can be rotated into place with threading corresponding to threading defined by at least a portion of the surfaces defining the passage. In yet another embodiment the locking pin 144 can have a mating connection with at least portion of the surfaces defining the passage. Also, at least a portion of the surfaces defining the passage can be configured to provide frictional engagement with the locking pin 144.
In one embodiment the locking pin 144 is spring-loaded in the container-pin opening in the container bottom 114, for example, and is triggered to release into the plate pin opening 142 when the container 100 is fully collapsed. This can be accomplished through employing a trigger, for example, that is mechanically engaged by a portion of the container 100, such as the container top 112, when the container 100 is fully collapsed. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other mechanisms for automatically engaging the locking pin 144 upon collapse of the container 100 can be employed.
In an alternate embodiment, such as the one depicted in
At this time the secondary lift beam 1600 will not be in motion. This will “lock” the container 1000 in its collapsed state. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other configurations of the locking pin and its placement onto/into the main lift beam 1500 would fit within the scope of the technology disclosed herein.
Hinge ConfigurationsThe embodiment depicted in
The hinge connection of
The container door 200 is generally configured to prevent and allow access to the inside of the container (not depicted) to load or unload the container. In the process where the container is collapsed, the container door 200 is folded within the container, which is described in more detail in the description of
The first locking mechanism 250 has two lock handles 251 pivotably disposed on the first door 232 on a pivot connection 258. Each lock handle 251 is connected to an upper lock rod 255 extending upwards that is configured to engage the top of the door frame 220 and the container (not shown). Each lock handle 251 is also coupled to a lower lock rod 256 extending downwards that is configured to engage the bottom of the door frame 220 and the container (not shown). The first locking mechanism 250 can be constructed of a variety of materials and combinations of materials, and it will be appreciated that such materials can be determined by those of ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment, components of the first locking mechanism 250 are constructed of steel and steel alloys or composite material.
Each lock handle 251 can have a variety of shapes and sizes, and as depicted in the current Figures is an elongated member defining a central void 252 by which the lock handle 251 is pivotably coupled to the door structure 230 through a pivot connection 258. The pivot connection 258 can have a variety of configurations as will generally be known in the art. When in this first phase of operation, the lock handle 251 is in a substantially horizontal position, and in various embodiments can be manually positioned as such.
As is depicted in
Referring to
Now the rest of the components of the container door 200 will be described. The door frame 220 can be constructed of a variety of materials, and in various embodiments will be constructed of substantially similar materials as those of the skeletal structure 104 such as steel, steel alloys, and/or composite material. The door frame 220 is generally rectangular in shape and defines a central opening that is configured to receive the door structure 230. The door frame 220 is also configured to be coupled to the perimeter of the aperture of at least one end of the container.
Container Door StructureWith reference to
The door frame 220 defines frame-lock openings 222 for receipt of the distal ends of the first locking mechanism 250 and the distal ends of the second locking mechanism 260. Such frame-lock openings 222 are substantially aligned with lock openings defined by the container 100 such that each frame lock opening 222 and a corresponding opening defined by the container 100 form a passageway that receives the distal end of the first locking mechanism 250 or the distal end of the second locking mechanism 260. The door frame 220 is further configured to receive at least the first door 232 and the second door 234 of the door structure 230.
The line of contact between the door frame 220 and the door structure 230 can be configured as a tortuous path to prevent water from entering the container when the container is in an upright position and the first door 232 and second door 234 are closed. In multiple embodiments the door frame 220 defines a step along the interior bottom surface that at least partially contacts the door structure 230. In an embodiment, a substantially perpendicular surface of the step partially contacts the bottom of the door structure 230 when the first door 232 and second door 234 are closed.
The door structure 230 includes the first door 232 and the second door 234, although in a variety of embodiments a single door can be used. Double-hinges 270 (
Referring to
The door panels 210, 212 can be substantially similar to the panels discussed in the discussion of
Each door panel 210, 212 defines one or more rod passages 211 that are configured to receive one or more sheer support rods 240. Each door panel also defines one or more end cap notches 214 that are configured to accommodate end caps 242 that are coupled to the each end of each support rod 240. The rod passages 211 are defined diagonally relative to the substantially rectangular door panels 210, 212. In one embodiment the door panels 210, 212 are each about one inch thick. In such an embodiment each door panel 210, 212 defines rod passages 211 across alternative diagonals relative to the door panel 210, 212. Such rod passages 211 are defined so that they do not substantially intersect within the door panel 210, 212. For example, in the embodiment depicted in the current figures, one rod passage 211 is defined 3/16 inch away from the front surface of the first door panel 210, and another rod passage 211 is defined 3/16-inch away from the front surface of the first door panel 210. Different dimensions can be used depending on the materials used or other factors.
In the current embodiment the end caps generally are configured similarly, and one will be described for further understanding. A portion of the end cap 242, from a first end 243, defines an opening 245 that is configured to receive a portion of the sheer support rod 240. In the current embodiment the opening 245 has a substantially circular cross section that has a diameter of about ⅝ inch. A rim (not shown) defined by the end cap 242 within the opening 245 defines an smaller opening of about ¼-inch at a particular depth within the end cap 242 that allows passage of the sheer support rod 240 there through. Such rim prevents progression of the sheer support rod 240 through the entire end cap 242. In another embodiment the opening defined by the rim is approximately ⅝-inch.
A second end 244 of the end cap 242 is configured to mate with the door structure 230 and has a flange 246 the approximate thickness of the door panel 210, 212. The flange 246 is configured at an angle such that a plane substantially defined by the outside surface of the flange 246 substantially aligns with a plane substantially defined by the door structure which can be referred to as an end cap mating surface (not depicted)of the door structure 230. The end cap 242 can be coupled to the door structure 230 through a variety of means known in the art such as, for example, nuts and/or bolts. In another embodiment the door structure 230 can couple to the sheer support rod 240, also through means generally known in the art.
In one embodiment the sheer support rods 240 have a circular cross-section and measure ¼ inch in diameter by 9 feet long, although alternatively-shaped cross-sections are also contemplated. Another embodiment has a diameter of approximately 3/16-inch. Again, different dimensions can be used depending on the materials used or other factors.
A portion of each end of the sheer support rods 240 can be threaded such that upon passage of the sheer support rod 240 through the opening defined by the internal rim of the end cap 242, a nut can be threaded onto the sheer support rod 240 from the other side of the rim to prevent at least one direction of movement of the sheer support rod 240 relative to the end cap 242. In another embodiment a nut can be threaded on the sheer support rod 240 on each side of the internal rim of the end cap 242 to prevent two directions of movement of the sheer support rod 240 relative to the end cap. The sheer support rods 240 can be constructed of steel, for example, although other materials generally used in the art are contemplated. The end caps 242 can likewise be constructed of steel, although other materials in the art can be used, such as other metals and plastics.
Container Door Locking System PhasesThe container door locking system has three different phases or positions. Phase one of the locking process is employed to hold items and transport the container, and is illustrated in
An end wall cable system that will be explained in the description of
In
In
Additionally,
Structures forming the seals between components of the container 100 and container door 200 could additionally be coated with, or generally include, a partially compressible material such as silicone or rubber that would further prevent entry of water. Other materials could also be used.
As discussed above, the container doors 200 are collapsed prior to collapsing the rest of the container 100. Now mechanisms associated with collapsing and expanding the container will be described.
The collapsing mechanism 300 has a drive shaft (not shown in
A screw 322 of the screw system 320 is coupled to a drive shaft that rotates the screw 322 about a central axis 326. The screw receptacle 324 of the screw system 320 is coupled to two lift beams 330 in the front of the shipping container. As the screw 322 is rotated, the screw receptacle 324 laterally translates along the screw 322, which laterally translates the portion of the front lift beams 330 coupled to the screw receptacle 324. Although, as depicted in
The screw system 320 is coupled to the lift beams 330 such that progression of the screw receptacle 324 along the screw 322 of the screw system 320 collapses the container, and regression of the screw receptacle 324 along the screw 322 expands the container. The coupling and interaction of the screw system 320 relative to the lift beams 330 is described now in terms of the lift beams 330 that are visible in
As the screw receptacle 324 progresses, sliding connectors 360 laterally translate along slots defined by the screw gear housing 328, sliding sheaths 390 and a sliding slot defined by the container. As such, the second ends 332 of the front lift beams 330 laterally translate towards the center of the container, causing the front lift beams 330 to pivot downwardly in a clockwise manner, about their respective first ends as described in the discussion of
As the screw system 320 regresses, on the other hand, the second ends 332 of the front lift beams 330 slides along their respective sliding slots away from the center of the container, causing the first lift beams 330 to pivot upwardly in a counterclockwise manner about their first ends. The second ends of the back lift beams slide along their respective sliding slots away from the center of the container to pivot upwardly, but in a clockwise manner, about their first ends. As the front lift beams 330 and back lift beams slide away from each other along their corresponding sliding slots and pivot about their respective pivot connections, each lift beam exerts an upward force on the container within each corresponding sliding slot. The upward force exerted by the lift beams guides the hinged components of the container to unfold about their respective hinges and expand. Although not depicted in
Referring to
The screw receptacle of each screw system is configured to have substantially equal horizontal displacement in response to the drive shaft as each screw system is progressed or regressed. A screw receptacle in the front of the container can have threading the runs counter to the screw receptacle in the back of the container such that a shared drive shaft can elicit opposite linear displacement of the screw receptacles relative to the container. In various embodiments the screw 322 of each screw system 320 is mechanically coupled to the drive gear and share an axis 326 of rotation with the drive gear. The screw systems 320 can be substantially symmetrical with respect to a central portion of the container.
In this particular embodiment, the second end 332 of each of the lift beams 330 slidably engages the container through a corresponding sliding slot, such that horizontal translation of the second end 332 is restricted to be the length of the sliding slot. An opening 334 defined by each of the lift beams 330 receives a sliding connector 360 that is configured to slide along the sliding slot defined by the container. The opening 334 of the lift beam 330 also accommodates rotation of the second end 332 of the lift beam 330 relative to the sliding connector 360 upon linear translation of the lift beam along the sliding slot. Other configurations of the lift beams 330 are also possible within the scope of the technology disclosed herein. For example, the container could define a track where the second ends 332 of the lift beams 330 engage the track in a slidable manner.
The four lift beams 330 are substantially similar in size, shape, and interaction with the container, except for hinge channels 336 (
The sliding connectors 360 are elongated rods, tubes having a square cross section, members, or the like, that each extend from the screw receptacle 324 of the screw system 320 to each respective front lift beam 330. In various embodiments a connector axis 325 mutually defined by the sliding connectors 360 is substantially perpendicular to a substantially central axis 326 defined by the screw system 320 and the connector axis 325 of the sliding connectors 360 are substantially perpendicular to a first plane 370 substantially parallel to planes defined by the front lift beams 330.
The sliding connectors 360 can have a circular cross section in multiple embodiments, although it is not necessary for practicing the technology disclosed herein. In some embodiments the sliding connectors 360 are directly received by the openings 334 defined by each of the front lift beams 330. Coupling of the sliding connectors 360 to the front lift beams 330 can be though any means known in the art. The sliding connectors 360 can be constructed of steel or a steel alloy in various embodiments, although other materials are contemplated as well.
Screw System of an Alternative EmbodimentSimilar to the previously-described embodiment, the collapsing mechanism has a drive shaft in mechanical communication with a screw system that is in further mechanical communication with the ends of lift beams that are slidably disposed along a portion of the container 1000. Each screw 3220 of the screw system is coupled to a drive shaft that rotates the screw 3220 about a central axis α (See
As each screw receptacle 3240 progresses, sliding connectors 3260 laterally translate along a sliding slot 1050, 1060 defined by the container, similar to the embodiment of
As the screw system regresses, on the other hand, the second ends 1520 of the primary lift beams 1500 slides along their respective sliding slots 1060 away from the center of the container 1000, causing the primary lift beams 1500 to pivot upwardly, which exerts an upward force on the sliding slots 1060 defined by the container 1000. The second ends 1620 of the secondary lift beams 1600 also slide away from the center of the container 1000, causing the secondary lift beams 1600 to also pivot upwardly, which exerts an upward force on the primary lift beam 1500 at the pivot point 1630. As such, each lift beam 1500, 1600 exerts an upward force either directly or indirectly on the container 1000 to guide the hinged components of the container 1000 to unfold about their respective hinges 1300 and expand.
When the container 1000 is collapsed the primary lift beams 1500 remain in a partially angled position relative to the horizontal plane. The discussion associated with
A support mechanism is incorporated into the container to provide structural support to the joints defined by the jointed columns when the container is in an expanded position.
The joint cable 430 can be constructed of a variety of materials, and in various embodiments are constructed of steel and/or a synthetic material. Other materials and combinations of materials are contemplated that would be workable within the assembly.
The column 105 defines cavities that are configured to accommodate the vertical translation of the joint plate 420 and the joint cable 430. In the example embodiment depicted in
Each column within a container can have a joint plate disposed thereon. In at least one embodiment, each hinge of each column of the container has one joint plate associated therewith. In a variety of embodiments, some joint plates can be translated above the hinge when a container is collapsed and some joint plates can translate to a position below the hinge when a container is collapsed.
Referring to
The joint plate 420 has a first major surface 422 and a second major surface 424 that is substantially parallel to the first major surface 422. An edge surface 426 is defined between the first major surface 422 and the second major surface, where at least a portion of the edge surface 426 is substantially perpendicular to the first major surface 422 and second major surface 424. At least a portion of a length of the edge surface 426 has a radius R. In various embodiments the joint plate 420 is constructed of a portion of solid steel, steel alloy, and/or composite material, having a structure that is corrugated or honeycomb shaped, although it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other materials would also be appropriate for the joint plate 420.
In a variety of embodiments, joint plates are replaced with other mechanisms that result in similar functionality. In the alternative embodiment depicted in
It will be appreciated that components described herein can have multiple functions. It will also be appreciated that the cable system can have a variety of configurations. In a variety of the implementations discussed below, spindles are incorporated with use of the cables. Such spindle systems can be an electric winch system, for example, initiated by a mechanical or electrical input, or, in another example, a mechanical system.
Providing Wall TensionThe cable system 500 generally provides structural support of the expanded shipping container 100 through tension forces within the container walls. Individual cables incorporated into this aspect of the cable system 500 are hereinafter referred to as “tension cables” 502. The group of drives, gears, spindles, and the like, incorporated into this aspect of the cable system 500 is hereinafter referred to as the “spindle system” 520.
The spindle system 520 is configured for tightening tension cables 502 to establish tension forces within the container walls. Referring to
The tension cables 502 run through at least the side walls of the container 100 in vertical and diagonal orientations which is best depicted in
When the container 100 is expanded the spindle drive shafts 522, 523 rotate in a first direction, causing the spindles 524 to rotate such that the tension cables 502 are collected by the spindles 524 and put under tension, thereby providing support to the container walls 512. When the container is collapsed the spindle drive shafts 522 rotate in a second direction, causing the spindles 524 to rotate such that the spindles 524 release the tension cables 502 to allow for collapsing of the container 100.
As can be seen in
One or more pulleys could also be incorporated in the system to provide a pathway for translation of the cables from the spindle along the top of the container 100 to the container sidewall 512 that is substantially perpendicular to the top of the container 100.
As in visible in
Secondly, the cable system 500 is configured to position joint plates as depicted and described relative to
Now, referring to
The sprockets 534 generally transfer rotation to each other via interlocking teeth. The sprockets 534 can have a variety of shapes, sizes, and system configurations that allow the joint plates (not shown) to move a distance and direction consistent with the description herein. For example, the sprockets 534 can have a gear ratio consistent with the plate spindle 536 collecting or releasing an amount of plate cable 504 to move the joint plate a particular distance in a particular direction consistent with the description herein. The sprockets 534 can generally be constructed of any material known in the art and in one embodiment is constructed of steel, steel alloy, aluminum, or composite material.
The sprocket drive shaft 532 is also in mechanical communication with a second sprocket drive shaft 532b that leads to the other side of the container (for example, the back of the container). The second sprocket drive shaft 532b drives a system substantially similar to the one just described for a different side of the container. Because there is no delay in the mechanical transfer of drive shaft rotation, systems operate substantially simultaneously.
Lowering and Raising the End Wall and Container DoorLastly, the cable system 500 is configured to lower and raise the end wall and the container door of the container 100. Individual cables incorporated into this aspect of the cable system 500 are hereinafter referred to as “end wall cables” 506. The group of drive shafts, spindles, gears, and the like, that are incorporated into this aspect of the cable system 500 is hereinafter referred to as the “end wall system” 540. Aspects of the end wall system 540 are depicted in
An end wall drive shaft is in mechanical communication with one or more sprockets 544 that transfer rotational motion to an end wall spindle 542, where the end wall drive shaft is also the plate drive shaft 532 in the current embodiment. In at least one embodiment, the end wall drive shaft can be different and distinct from the plate drive shaft 532. A first end of the end wall cable 506 is fixed to the end wall spindle 542 such that the spindle 542 collects or releases the end wall cable 506 when the spindle 542 is rotated, and a second end of the end wall cable 506 is fixed to the top of an end wall, where the end wall can be a container door.
When the container 100 is expanded, the end wall drive shaft causes the spindle 542 to rotate in a direction that collects the end wall cable 506 to raise a container end wall and prevent collapse of the container end wall, such as when phase three of the container door locking system is engaged, as described in the discussion of
The sprockets 534 can have a variety of shapes, sizes, and system configurations that allow the end wall cable (not shown) to raise or lower a container end wall. For example, the sprockets 534 can have a gear ratio consistent with the end wall spindle 542 collecting or releasing an amount of end wall cable 506 to raise an end wall consistent with the description herein. As previously mentioned, in at least one embodiment an electric winch system can also be implemented within the system to raise or lower the container end wall.
Various components of the container 100 can define openings through which components of the cable system 500 can pass.
The cable tubes 554 are elongated tubes that extend at about 55°, 90°, and 125°, respectively, relative to a horizontal reference line x, although the cable tubes could be at a variety of other angles as well. The cable tubes 554 can have a variety of shapes and sizes, and in this embodiment are generally elongated members defining a substantially cylindrical opening 558. The elongated members of the cable tubes 554 can, likewise, be substantially cylindrical, although in the current embodiment the elongated members have at least one substantially flat surface and at least one radial surface along the length of the elongated members. The substantially flat surface of the elongated members can be configured to face the container when the connector ring 552 is attached to a container. Each opening defined by each cable tube 554 receives a cable. The end of the cable received by the cable tube 554 is forged with the cable tube 554. In one embodiment the end of the cable received by the cable tube 554 is pinched against the cable tube with a bolt, for example. Other methods could also be employed. In the current embodiment, the cable tubes 554 are constructed of steel or a steel alloy, but could also be constructed of a composite or a variety of other materials known in the art.
As depicted in
The cable tube 564 can extend at about 90° relative to a horizontal reference line y. The cable tube 564 can be configured similarly to cable tubes associated with the triple cable connector 550 as described above. Likewise, a tension cable can be bolted within a cylindrical opening 568 of the cable tube 564.
A first end of the cables 506 are coupled to the top side of the door 200 through any means known in the art and in a variety of positions relative to the door. A second end of the cables 506 are fixed to the end wall spindles 542 that are depicted in
As described above, in the discussion related to raising and lowering the end walls,
The drive lock 700 has a lock plate 720 defining an opening 722 that is pivotably disposed on a drive lock body 710 at a pivot axis 730. The plate opening 722 is configured to receive, and prevent rotation of, a drive shaft. In the current embodiment best viewed in
The drive lock body 710 is configured to be coupled to at least a portion of the container and to provide pivot points and support for the lock plate 720. In the current embodiment the drive lock body 710 has flanges 750 that define openings 752 through which the drive lock body 710 can be coupled to a container, which will be described in more detail in the description of
The lock plate cable 760 causes disengagement of the drive lock 700 from the respective drive shaft mating shape 790, and runs from a user-interface on the container, through the cable run 754, over a lock plate pulley 762, and is coupled to a cable anchor 764. The cable anchor 764 is mechanically coupled to the lock plate 720 through a release pathway 780 defined by the drive lock body 710, such that pulling the lock plate cable 760 causes the cable anchor 764 to travel along the release pathway 780 defined by the drive lock body 710, thereby pivoting the lock plate 720 to a non-vertical disengaged position.
A first end of a locking spring 740 is coupled to a spring anchor 742 that is disposed on the drive lock body 710. A second end of the locking spring 740 is coupled to a spring bolt 744, where the spring bolt 744 is mechanically coupled to the lock plate 720 through an engagement pathway 770 defined by the drive lock body 710. The forces exerted by the locking spring 740 prevents the lock plate 720 from pivoting, and thereby keeps the drive lock 700 engaged, or, in other words, keeps the lock plate 720 in a substantially vertical state by which the lock plate 720 engages the drive shaft. So, unless the force exerted by the spring 740 to prevent the lock plate 720 from pivoting is overcome by the force of the lock plate cable 760 to pivot the lock plate 720, the drive lock 700 remains engaged.
The release pathway 780 defined by the drive lock body 710 is configured to accommodate the cable anchor 764 along the path of travel of the cable anchor 764 as the lock plate 720 pivots. Likewise, the engagement pathway 770 defined by the drive lock body 710 is configured to accommodate the spring bolt 744 along the path of travel of the spring bolt 744 as the lock plate 720 pivots.
As mentioned above,
The slip gear system 800 has a gear housing 810 that is configured to couple to a container with openings 814 defined by coupling flanges 812. A gear shaft 840 is received by an opening defined by the housing 810 and the gear shaft 840 receives a first clutch washer 832, a locking gear 830, a second clutch washer 834, and a pinion barrel 850, where such components are rotatably disposed on the gear shaft 840. The gear shaft 840 is coupled to a drive shaft, for example, with a first clutch adapter 842 coupled to one end of the gear shaft 840. The pinion barrel 850 defines an opening that receives a slide clutch 860, where a pin opening 852 defined by the pinion barrel 850 and a pin pathway 862 defined by the slide clutch 860 mutually receive a pin 870. The slide clutch is likewise configured to couple to a drive gear with a second clutch adapter 844 disposed thereon.
A sway lock 820 is coupled to the housing 810 with a hinge 822, where a coupling mechanism such as a pin mutually passes through a sway lock opening 816 defined by the housing 810 and the hinge opening 824 defined by the hinge 822 of the sway lock 820. The sway lock 820 is disposed within a cavity defined by the housing so as to be in mechanical communication with a locking gear 830. The housing 810 further defines a lock stop 818 that is generally a flange extending downwardly at an angle consistent with preventing rotation of the sway lock 820 beyond a particular angle.
The slip gear system is generally configured to ratchet as a container is expanded. In various embodiments the slip gear system 800 provides auditory indication that the container is in the process of being expanded. For example, in the current embodiment teeth 834 defined by the locking gear 830 make contact with the sway lock 820, causing the sway lock 820 to pivot up slightly about its hinge 822. After a tooth 834 passes, gravity causes the sway lock 820 to pivot back down again, providing an auditory alert of the expansion process. A counterweight 826 can be included on the sway lock 820 to enhance such functioning. When the container is collapsed, pressure is relieved from the locking gear 830, which allows the drive shaft to rotate in the opposite direction.
Power Take Off DeviceThe PTO 900 has a PTO housing 920 that can be configured to accommodate the shape of a container and, in some embodiments, couple to the container. Two coupling surfaces 922 extend from the top of the PTO 900 where the coupling surfaces 922 are configured to engage the top of the container during the collapsing or expanding process. Each coupling surface 922 is the bottom surface of a flange that is configured to extend substantially parallel to the top surface of the container when the PTO is mounted to a container, and in some embodiments, engage the top of the container. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the PTO housing can engage connecting points of the container, where the connecting points of the container are the standard points at which containers mutually engage when they are stacked (and are generally known in the art). The coupling surfaces 922 could define a mating component that mates with a corresponding mating component on the container, in some example embodiments. In another example, the coupling surfaces 922 can define openings corresponding to openings on the container through which a lock or a pin can be passed. Those skilled in the art will appreciate a variety of different approaches to mounting the PTO to a container.
Protrusions 930, 940, 950 extending from the PTO are configured to be received by drive inserts defined by the container and mentioned above. Plate drives 940 are configured to be in communication with the plate drive shaft 532 described in the description of
When the container 100 is collapsed, the drives of the PTO 900 are aligned and inserted in the PTO drive inserts of the container 100. The PTO 900 is powered on and the drives transfer rotational motion to the various drive shafts of the container 100 that cause the container to collapse. The container then collapses consistent with the disclosure herein. The PTO 900 can then be powered off.
The alternate embodiment of the shipping container depicted in
It will be appreciated that other devices may be used instead of, or in conjunction with a PTO, such as an electrical auxiliary device to be used with, for example, an electric winch.
Container StackingMany mechanisms are known for securing containers to each other in stacked configurations and any of these mechanisms, and others, can be used to secure the collapsed containers to each other in a stack. An example mechanism is a corner connector component that is manufactured for Sea Box shipping containers in Riverton, N.J.
It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The phrase “configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases such as “arranged”, “arranged and configured”, “constructed and arranged”, “constructed”, “manufactured and arranged”, and the like.
All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. All publications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference.
This application is intended to cover adaptations or variations of the present subject matter. It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive.
Claims
1-9. (canceled)
10. A shipping container with a tensioning mechanism comprising:
- a shipping container having a sidewall and an edge, where the sidewall defines passages through which cable can pass;
- a plurality of tension cables running through the passages in a plane substantially parallel to a plane defined by a surface of the sidewall, where each cable of the plurality of tension cables has a first end coupled proximate to the edge of the container and a second end;
- a spindle system connected to the second ends of the tension cables and configured to collect the one or more tension cables when the container is expanded and release one or more tension cables from the second ends when the container is collapsed.
11. The tensioning mechanism of claim 10 wherein the cables are synthetic cables.
12. The tensioning mechanism of claim 10 wherein the cables are steel cables.
13. The tensioning mechanism of claim 10 further comprising a pulley system defining a translation pathway for each tension cable from a substantially vertical plane to a substantially horizontal plane.
14. A tensioning mechanism for a shipping container comprising:
- a first cable having a first end and second end, where the first end of the first cable is fixed adjacent to a first edge of a wall;
- a second cable having a first end and second end, where the first end of the second cable is fixed proximate to the first edge of the wall;
- a spindle fixed proximate to a second edge of the wall where the spindle is configured to collect and release the first cable from the second end of the first cable and the second cable from the second end of the second cable;
- a spindle drive in communication with the spindle.
15. The tensioning mechanism of claim 14 wherein the cables are synthetic cables.
16. The tensioning mechanism of claim 14 wherein the cables are steel cables.
17. The tensioning mechanism of claim 14 further comprising a pulley system defining a translation pathway for each tension cable from a substantially vertical plane to a substantially horizontal plane.
18. A tensioning mechanism for a shipping container comprising:
- a plurality of cables fixed proximate to a first edge of a container;
- a spindle system configured to collect one or more tension cables from a second edge of the container when the container is expanded and release one or more tension cables from the second ends when the container is collapsed.
19. The tensioning mechanism of claim 18 further comprising a pulley system defining a translation pathway for each tension cable.
20. The tensioning mechanism of claim 19 wherein the pulley system defines a translation pathway from a substantially vertical plane to a substantially horizontal plane.
21. The tensioning mechanism of claim 18 wherein the spindle system is in communication with a drive shaft.
22. The tensioning mechanism of claim 21 wherein the spindle system is in communication with a power take-off device insert.
23-39. (canceled)
40. A locking system comprising:
- a door of a structure;
- a door frame coupled to the first door and pivotably coupled to the structure;
- a lock handle pivotably disposed on a door, configured to have a first position in a first phase of a locking system;
- the lock handle configured to have a second position in a second phase of a locking system;
- the lock handle configured to have a third position in a third phase of a locking system.
41-42. (canceled)
43. The locking system of claim 40 wherein the second position is at a first angle relative to the first position.
44. (canceled)
45. The locking system of claim 40 wherein the third position is at a second angle relative to the first position.
46. (canceled)
47. The locking system of claim 40 wherein in the first phase the door is secured to the door frame and the structure and the door frame is secured to the structure.
48. The locking system of claim 40 wherein in the second phase the door is secured to the door frame.
49. The locking system of claim 40 wherein in the third phase the doorframe is secured to the structure.
50. The locking system of claim 40 further comprising an upper lock rod and a lower lock rod in mechanical communication with the lock handle, the door frame, and the structure.
Type: Application
Filed: Jan 26, 2010
Publication Date: Jan 12, 2012
Inventor: T. Cody Turnquist (Hamel, MN)
Application Number: 13/144,611
International Classification: B65D 6/26 (20060101); E05B 65/06 (20060101); E06B 3/34 (20060101);